Can Public Speakers Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, public speakers can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) allows US citizens to start a business in the Netherlands, and public speaking works well under this treaty. You can deliver keynotes, workshops, and corporate training for clients across Europe and the US.
Public speakers are a good fit for DAFT because the work is inherently entrepreneurial. You're already running a business — DAFT just gives you a European home base.
DAFT Eligibility for Public Speakers
Status: DAFT Eligible
Public speaking is a service-based business that fits naturally under DAFT. The Netherlands' central European location makes it an ideal base for speakers who work the conference circuit.
Key points:
- Location flexible — travel to events, deliver virtual presentations, or both
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: Moderate (strong conference culture in the Netherlands)
- Typical income range: €50,000–€150,000/year (highly variable)
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here, and it works well for solo speakers.
Public speakers usually have variable income — feast or famine. An eenmanszaak keeps your fixed costs low during quieter periods.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and a notary. Consider this if you're doing high-value corporate engagements where contract liability matters, or if you're earning consistently above €100,000/year.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Speaking Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Be clear about your offerings. For public speakers, this typically includes:
- Keynote presentations and conference talks
- Corporate workshops and training sessions
- Virtual presentations and webinars
Step 2: KVK Registration Register your business with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. You'll need:
- Valid residence permit (or proof of DAFT application)
- Proof of address in the Netherlands
- Description of your business activities
- €75 registration fee
Step 3: Tax Registration After KVK registration, you'll automatically be registered with the Belastingdienst (Dutch tax authority) for:
- Income tax
- VAT (BTW) — you may be exempt if under €20,000/year
Common Challenges & Solutions
Challenge: Speaking fees vary wildly and income is unpredictable Solution: Diversify your revenue streams. Combine paid speaking with consulting, online courses, book royalties, and corporate training. Many successful speakers earn more from workshops than keynotes.
Challenge: Travel requirements for in-person events Solution: The Netherlands is a travel hub. Schiphol Airport connects to virtually every major European city within 1–3 hours. For US events, direct flights from Amsterdam are plentiful. Budget for quarterly US trips.
Challenge: Building a European speaking reputation Solution: Start with US-originated conferences that have European editions. Offer to speak at local meetups and industry events to build visibility. European conferences often seek American speakers for fresh perspectives.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €50,000–€150,000/year (highly variable)
Tax obligations:
- Dutch income tax (progressive rates, 36–49%)
- US tax filing required (as a US citizen)
- Foreign Earned Income Exclusion may apply
- Tax treaty between US and Netherlands prevents double taxation
VAT (BTW):
- Services to US/non-EU clients: 0% (reverse charge)
- Services to Dutch clients: 21% VAT
- Small business exemption if under €20,000/year
Pro Tip: Keep detailed records of travel expenses — flights, hotels, and meals for speaking engagements are generally deductible business expenses.
See our US Taxes While Living in Netherlands guide.
Finding Clients as a Public Speaker
International clients:
- Maintain relationships with US speaking bureaus and event organizers
- Apply to speak at international conferences in your niche
- Virtual speaking opens up the global market without travel costs
Dutch and European clients:
- The Netherlands hosts major conferences across industries (tech, finance, sustainability)
- Cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague have active event scenes
- Connect with local expat communities — they often organize events needing speakers
Best practice: Start DAFT with some booked engagements or recurring revenue. Pure speaking income can be unpredictable, so pair it with consulting or training to ensure steady cash flow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I speak at events in other EU countries while on DAFT? A: Yes. As a DAFT resident, you can travel freely within the Schengen zone. Short-term business activities like conference speaking in other EU countries are generally fine. For extended work in another country, check that country's specific rules.
Q: Do I need to speak Dutch to succeed as a public speaker in the Netherlands? A: No. The Netherlands has one of the highest English proficiency rates in the world. Most international conferences and corporate events are conducted in English. Dutch is helpful for daily life but not required for your speaking business.
Q: What if I also sell books or courses alongside speaking? A: That's great — and it all works under DAFT. Digital products, book sales, and course revenue can all be part of your registered business activities.
Related Professions
If public speaker isn't quite right for your situation, consider these related professions that also work with DAFT:
Next Steps
- Evaluate your situation — Do you have booked engagements? Recurring revenue? A viable business plan?
- Read the complete DAFT guide — Understand all requirements
- Prepare your documents — Start the apostille process early
- Plan your timeline — Most people need 3–6 months to prepare
Digital Guide — $99
We're not immigration lawyers—just Americans who did this. Requirements change, so verify with official sources.